Camco International, Inc.

Frank Hall

Steve R Delgado

Robert J Kotch

A fluid pressure compensator for a lubrication system in a rotary drill bit includes a diaphragm (44) with an enlarged thickness central portion (62) having a generally hemispherically shaped deformation (72) at its center to form a minimal thickness thereat progressively increasing to the enlarged thickness. A self sealing puncture (74) is provided at the center of the diaphragm (44) to relieve excess pressure differentials in the lubrication system internally of the drill bit and excess pressure differentials in the drilling fluid externally of the drill bit. The diaphragm (44) has an enlarged protuberance (64) about its outer periphery which is secured in sealing relation within a groove formed by sealing surfaces (66, 68, 70) on a leg (10) of the rotary bit and associated securing cap (46). A protective cup (42) supports the diaphragm (44) in an extended position and has dimples (58) for supporting the diaphragm (46) on the bottom (40) of the lubricant reservoir (49).

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Houston, TX, United States of America

Frank Hall